Another slow start today. The hosts at this B&B join us at the breakfast table. Francis, in particular, has had a rather eclectic career and has an extensive collection of interesting stories. It makes for a leisurely breakfast.

After breakfast, we set out to find a local store that sold Maori crafts, only to discover that it only sold items online – there wasn’t an in-person store. More research will be required in the future, but no worries. We headed to the Whangarei town basin. We heard it had the Hundertwasser Museum, a vibrant arts scene, and a walking trail along the river. We also wanted to find lunch somewhere in there as well. We found it all.

Friedensreich Hundertwasser spent the last few decades of his life in New Zealand, and this museum and adjoining arts center celebrates this. His style is distinct, but you could see a certain similarity with Gaudi.

Just outside the museum, along the river, we found this rather interesting structure that incorporates the same style. See if you can find me in the picture.

Next, we saw the Canopy Bridge, a decommissioned car bridge that has been covered with a canopy and is used for artisan markets and other local events.

The art works are hidden everywhere. This painting is only visible from the bridge.

The adjoining artisan center has several shops specializing in different arts. In one, we saw someone using a spinning wheel to make yarn. In the same shop, there was a large loom with a nearly completed work. To the lower left of the tapestry you can see the picture they are using as the model for the piece. If you’re looking for a challenge Stu, I think I’ve found it!

Next door, a glass blower was at work.

Then it was time for the river walk. It has pieces of art and information panels at regular intervals. This next piece of art is called Waka and the Wave. It is a joint collaboration between two artist, one Maori and one of European descent. It symbolizes two cultures coming together, merging, learning from each other, and moving forward. If you want the full story, you’ll need to visit.

Here is a closer look at the Waka (Maori boat) emerging from the wave.

Further along, we crossed this bridge. The white pieces symbolize Maori fish hooks, but they are also functional. The bridge raises to allow ships to pass through, and the white pieces act as a counterweight. I love how art and function can combine.

After crossing the bridge, we spotted this, and went to investigate.

It was a camera obscura, and once you went inside, and allowed your eyes to adjust, you had a clear picture of the bridge, upside down, of course.

Tonight there is a total lunar eclipse – a “blood moon” – and we are in the perfect place to see it. Here’s hoping the skies remain clear!